ANKARA: Turkey’s Communications Director, Fahrettin Altun, praised the recent agreement between Ethiopia and Somalia, describing it as a significant outcome of Turkey’s diplomatic efforts. The Ankara Declaration, signed under Turkey’s mediation, aims to address regional geopolitical conflicts and foster long-term peace in Africa.
According to Anadolu Agency, Altun emphasized the complexity of the conflict, noting its wide-ranging implications for domestic and international politics. He attributed the agreement to Turkey’s persistent diplomatic endeavors, led by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and the Foreign Ministry. Altun indicated that while the agreement marks a substantial step forward, technical negotiations will continue, with Turkey maintaining its role as a diplomatic facilitator.
The declaration was announced after Erdogan hosted Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud and Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed in Ankara. In a joint statement, Somalia and Ethiopia reaffirmed their commitment to each ot
her’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, aligning with international law and the principles of the African Union.
The tensions between the two countries escalated after Ethiopia’s agreement with Somaliland to utilize the Red Sea port of Berbera, prompting Turkey’s intervention to mediate and reduce hostilities.
Syria’s Crisis Remains a Key Concern for Turkey
ANKARA: In addition to the Ethiopia-Somalia agreement, Turkey’s Communications Director Fahrettin Altun addressed the ongoing crisis in Syria, underscoring its importance to Turkey’s national stability and the international community.
Altun reflected on the 13-year conflict in Syria, highlighting Turkey’s humanitarian efforts as the primary host for Syrian refugees. He criticized the rise of xenophobic rhetoric within Turkey, attributing it to political factions seeking to expel refugees and emphasizing that such views are largely unsupported by the public.
Altun reiterated Turkey’s commitment to preserving Syria’s unity and fostering a peaceful
coexistence among its diverse ethnic and religious groups. He also vowed to prevent terrorist organizations from exploiting the current power vacuum following recent clashes in Syria.
The recent outbreak of violence led to the collapse of the Baath Party regime when anti-regime groups gained control of Damascus, prompting Bashar Assad and his family to flee to Russia. Altun affirmed Turkey’s dedication to supporting Syria’s recovery and development in this new chapter of its history.